Production professionals seeking solid locations, smooth logistics, and unique visual landscapes are finding Tunisia more and more attractive. This Tunisia Film Production Guide has been created to help guide you through your shoot smoothly, efficiently, and creatively. Whether you are an up-and-coming producer or a seasoned executive, these points of intelligence will position you for an easy and successful shoot in North Africa’s growing film hub.
A film crew shoots a scene in the medina of a Tunisian city, illustrating practical insights from the Tunisia Film Production Guide.
Why use the Tunisia film production guide?
1. Varied locations & scenery
From Roman ruins to Mediterranean coastlines, from bustling souks to Martian-red deserts, Tunisia offers unprecedented diversity within short travel distances. The Tunisia Film Production Guide boasts iconic shooting locations like Tunis’ medina, Matmata Star Wars sites, and Ain Draham’s dense forests—each offering a cinematic palette that can be doubled as multiple countries or time periods.
2. Streamlined permit procedures
Partnering with local bureaucracy is necessary. This Tunisia Film Production Guide details step by step how to acquire shooting permits from the Tunisian Film Commission. With government and institution backing for foreign productions, the process is relatively faster than in other North African markets—especially with having a registered local partner.
3. Cost-effective production
Tunisia ranks as one of the lowest-cost locations for high-grade production. Our Tunisia Film Production Guide explains how lower costs for labor, accommodation, transportation, and equipment allow you to achieve more mileage without cutting corners. Many production facilities operate within the budget of Europe or the US without compromising on talent and equipment for you.
Pre-production tips
4. Engage a local fixer or production service
Success in Tunisia starts with acquiring a solid local partner. The Tunisia Film Production Guide recommends hiring an experienced fixer or production coordinator to secure permits, deal with translations, scout authentic locations, and troubleshoot on the spot.
5. Scout locations wisely
Begin with virtual location scouting using programs like Google Earth, Instagram geotags, or local YouTube videos. But nothing beats a pre-shoot visit to the location. The Tunisia Film Production Guide suggests a first trip to gauge lighting, accessibility, and logistics needs—especially in rural locations or heritage areas.
6. Learn local regulations
Drone cinematography, cinematography on archaeological sites, or employing local extras might require additional paperwork. This Tunisia Film Production Guide calls on producers to keep a close liaison with government authorities like the Tunisian Ministry of Culture to ensure continuity and reduce delays.
On-Set Implementation
7. Employ Local Crew & Equipment
Tunisian crew are professional, multi-lingual, and accustomed to international standards. They may have even worked for Netflix, HBO, or Bollywood. Tunisia Film Production Guide recommends Tunis and Hammamet rental facilities for ARRI, Sony FS7, RED, and Blackmagic packages. Grip trucks and sound gear are also on offer.
Additional Considerations
Respect Cultural Norms
Shooting during Ramadan, going to mosques, or shooting in traditional neighborhoods is sensitive to local culture. Tunisia’s Film Production Guide offers etiquette tips: dress modestly, avoid Friday prayer times, and always obtain permission to shoot locals.
Weather & timing
Tunisia’s climate is Mediterranean in the north and desert in the south. The Tunisia Film Production Guide suggests spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) as the optimum times to shoot—pleasant temperatures, golden light, and few tourist visitors.
Post-production
Tunis has modern post-production facilities with color grading, sound design, VFX, and DCP mastering available. The Tunisia Film Production Guide features partner studios with competitive rates and rapid turnaround.
Bonus resources
Consult our article “Film Crew Hiring in North Africa” for information on hiring local crews.
Use the Tunisian Film Commission portal to access new legal forms and incentive guidelines.
Ready to film in Tunisia?
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